The last year was a a busy and exciting one for the Toronto food scene, in which we saw electric openings that ranged from highbrow to low, including modest local joints and grand, attention-grabbing eateries.
To highlight the standout newcomers, we asked Michelin-recognized chefs Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo, recently awarded a Bib Gourmand for Fonda Balam— a restaurant inspired by a love for travel and the authentic cuisine and culture of Mexico — to tell us what she thought was the best new addition to the city’s dining scene. Read on to find out which exciting spot they selected.
Chef Chomyshyn and Guajardo’s pick: Sunnys Chinese
“The dish that really stood out for us was the Husband and Wife Beef,” the chefs recently told us. “Also, both of their desserts were awesome.”
Sunny’s Chinese
Born as a wildly successful pandemic pop-up, Sunnys Chinese’s brick-and-mortar locations has become one of the most coveted tables in the city, thanks to enviously cool vibes and food that feels both adventurous and comforting. Tucked in the former Cold Tea space within a small mall in Kensington Market, Sunnys’s out-of-the-way location, moody lighting, groovy beats and playful little details (like tiny panda chopstick rests) set the tone for an exciting dining experience. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe belie chefs David Schwartz and Braden Chong’s earnest and thoroughly researched approach to regional Chinese cuisine. Touching on dishes spanning from Sichuan to Hong Kong, the menu offers something for diners with varying palates and preferences. Fans of Chinese takeout can devour near-perfected versions of American-Chinese classics like orange chicken, and those looking for a deep dive into China’s culinary culture can tuck into shareables like the Husband and Wife Beef, a Sichuan dish featuring braised beef shank, tendon and tripe covered in fiery house-made chili oil and finished with crunchy peanuts. Cocktails that play with Chinese spirits and ingredients bring the whole experience together. 60 Kensington Ave.
To find out which new restaurant Michelin chef Eric Chong selected, click here, if you’re curious about what new spot Tobey Nemeth and Michael Cabello of Edulis chose, click here, And you’ll find chef Anthony Rose of Fat Pasha’s favourite new restaurant here.